Things To Do
in Colombia
Colombia is a vibrant country located in the northern part of South America, known for its diverse landscapes that include lush rainforests, towering mountains, and beautiful coastlines along both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. It boasts a rich blend of cultures, influenced by Indigenous, Spanish, African, and various other immigrant communities, which is reflected in its music, dance, and festivals, notably the colorful Carnival of Barranquilla.
Notably, Colombia is the world's leading source of emeralds and is famous for its coffee, flowers, and the remarkable resilience and warmth of its people.
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo te va?" - How's it going?
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Gold Museum to see its fascinating collection. Afterward, stroll through La Candelaria, the historic district filled with colorful colonial buildings.
Head to Monserrate for lunch and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Explore the local markets and try some traditional Colombian coffee.
Dine at a local restaurant in Zona Rosa, famous for its vibrant nightlife. Enjoy a drink at one of the rooftop bars with stunning city views.
Take a morning walk in the Botanical Garden and enjoy the lush greenery. Visit the nearby Plaza Botero to admire Fernando Botero's famous sculptures.
Explore Comuna 13 with a guided tour to learn about its transformation and street art. Grab lunch at a local eatery and savor some traditional bandeja paisa.
Experience Medellín's nightlife in the Poblado area. Enjoy live music or visit a salsa club to dance the night away.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and diversity
- Breathtaking natural landscapes, including beaches, mountains, and rainforests
- Growing economy with opportunities in tourism and various industries
- Friendly and welcoming people
- Vibrant cities like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena with a lively nightlife
- Rich culinary scene offering diverse regional dishes
- Improvements in safety and infrastructure in recent years
- Issues with crime and safety in certain areas
- Political instability and social tensions
- Economic inequality and poverty in some regions
- Traffic congestion in major cities
- Environmental challenges such as deforestation and pollution
- Limited public transportation infrastructure in rural areas
- High humidity and tropical weather can be uncomfortable for some
Best Activities in Colombia
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning landscape of the Cocora Valley, home to the world's tallest palm trees and beautiful hiking trails.
Enjoy the pristine beaches, lush rainforest, and diverse wildlife at Tayrona National Park, perfect for hiking, camping, and snorkeling.
Discover the city of Medellin on two wheels, cycling through its scenic neighborhoods and enjoying its vibrant culture.
Immerse yourself in the incredible biodiversity of the Amazon Rainforest while spotting a wide variety of exotic bird species.
Tours
Uncover the best of Colombia with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Colombia
Visit one of these nice places.
Famous for the stunning views from the top of the Rock of Guatapé, which offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding lakes and islands.
Known for its towering wax palm trees against the backdrop of the Andes mountains, providing picturesque landscapes.
Offers beautiful beaches, lush jungle, and ancient ruins, making it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.
Food in Colombia
Colombia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty dish featuring rice, beans, ground meat, chicharrón, plantain, avocado, arepa, and a fried egg. Best enjoyed at authentic local restaurants in Medellín and Antioquia.
Must-Try!
A chicken and potato soup flavored with a local herb called guascas, accompanied by corn on the cob and avocado. This traditional dish is a must-try in Bogotá.
A delectable seafood stew made with coconut milk, plantains, and a medley of fresh fish and shellfish. Best savored along the Caribbean coast in cities like Cartagena.
A roasted suckling pig dish, typically stuffed with rice, peas, and spices. It's a staple at celebrations and can be found at local markets and festivals across the country.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Colombia better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market in Bogotá offers an array of fresh produce, tropical fruits, and local snacks. Visitors can sample exotic fruits like lulo and pitahaya, as well as street foods like arepas and empanadas.
Located in Medellín, this riverside gastronomic market is a paradise for food lovers, featuring a wide range of local and international culinary delights, from traditional Colombian dishes to global street food.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Colombia, it's important to greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact. It is also common to address people with their titles and last names as a sign of respect.
Colombians generally appreciate personal space and may stand closer during conversations than in some other cultures. However, it's important to respect people's personal space and avoid standing too close unless invited.
Respect for elders is a significant part of Colombian culture. It's important to show deference and use formal language when addressing older individuals. Additionally, it's customary to greet them first when entering a room.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Colombia with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Colombia
Ensure a smooth experience
In Colombia, tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated, especially in restaurants. A common practice is to leave a 10% tip for good service. Some upscale establishments may include a service charge in the bill, in which case an additional tip is not necessary.
Cash is widely used in Colombia for day-to-day transactions, although major credit and debit cards are accepted in urban areas and tourist hotspots. It's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and to be prepared for situations where cards may not be accepted. ATMs are readily available in cities and towns for withdrawing local currency.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Colombia.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Colombia with sunny weather and lower chance of rain. It's a popular time for tourists, especially along the coast and in popular cities like Cartagena.
Expect heavier rainfall during these months, especially in the Amazon region. However, the landscapes are lush and vibrant during this time, and it's a great time for birdwatching and enjoying the natural beauty of Colombia.
Colombia at Night
Hiking in Colombia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning national park located in the Andes, featuring snow-capped volcanic mountains, diverse wildlife, and extensive hiking trails suitable for various skill levels.
Home to the towering wax palm trees, this valley offers picturesque hiking routes with lush landscapes and beautiful views, making it a popular destination for hikers.
The highest coastal mountain range in the world, offering a variety of trails that lead through cloud forests, indigenous communities, and stunning vistas.
A coastal national park known for its beautiful beaches, tropical forests, and archaeological sites, providing several hiking paths with breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea.
A dramatic canyon with hiking opportunities that offer spectacular views, as well as options for adventure sports like paragliding and mountain biking.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Colombia through these rare and unique activities.
Airports
How to reach Colombia by plane.
Located in Bogotá, this is the largest and busiest airport in Colombia and serves as a major international hub for South America.
Situated near Medellín, this international airport serves as a key gateway to the country and offers connections to various international destinations.
Located in Cartagena, this airport serves the Caribbean region and connects to multiple international destinations.
This airport is located near Cali and serves as an important access point for international flights to and from the Pacific region of Colombia.
Also known as Palmaseca, it's located near Cali and serves as another option for international travelers in the region.
Situated in Santa Marta, this airport serves the northern coast of Colombia and offers international flights, primarily to nearby Central and South American countries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Colombia, consisting of people of mixed European and Indigenous ancestry.
People of European descent, primarily Spanish, who make up a significant portion of the population.
Individuals of African descent, often found in the coastal regions and urban areas, contributing to Colombia's cultural diversity.
Various ethnic groups native to Colombia, including the Wayuu, Emberá, and Nasa, each with distinct languages and cultures.
A small group of Roma people in Colombia who maintain their unique cultural identity.
A minority group including Chinese, Japanese, and other Asian heritages, mostly residing in urban centers.
The Soul of Colombia
Discover the essence of Colombia through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Colombia, with a passionate following and a rich history, including successful clubs and the national team.
Cycling enjoys significant popularity, particularly due to famous cyclists like Nairo Quintana and Egan Bernal who have achieved international success.
Tejo is a traditional sport that involves throwing a metal disk at a target filled with gunpowder, creating a unique mix of sport and entertainment.
Baseball is particularly popular in the Caribbean region of Colombia, with a strong following and a competitive league structure.
Volleyball, especially beach volleyball, has a growing fan base and is played recreationally and competitively in various regions.
Various forms of martial arts, including taekwondo and judo, are popular in Colombia, with many practitioners and competitive events.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants and cafes in tourist areas and larger cities offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, such as vegetable stews, arepas with avocado, and tropical fruit salads. Look for dedicated vegetarian eateries in urban centers.
While Colombian cuisine prominently features grains like wheat and corn, many establishments are accommodating to gluten-free dietary needs. Opt for naturally gluten-free items like grilled meats, ceviche, and fresh fruit juices, and communicate your dietary requirements to kitchen staff for a tailored dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Colombia with these cultural adventures.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Colombia.